The bill amends RCW 49.46.210 to enhance paid sick leave provisions for employees in Washington State. It mandates that employers provide paid sick leave, allowing employees to accrue at least one hour of paid sick leave for every forty hours worked. Employees can use this leave for various health-related reasons, including their own or a family member's illness, and when a child's school is closed for health-related reasons or public emergencies. The bill also clarifies the definition of "family member" and establishes that employees can begin using accrued sick leave after 90 days of employment. Additionally, it specifies that employers cannot penalize employees for using sick leave and must notify them of their available sick leave balance.

Furthermore, the bill introduces specific provisions for transportation network companies, requiring them to provide drivers with earned paid sick time starting January 1, 2023. Drivers will accrue one hour of sick time for every 40 hours worked and can use it for similar reasons as other employees. The bill also outlines the process for requesting and compensating for sick time, ensuring that drivers are informed about their sick leave status. The Department of Labor and Industries is tasked with developing outreach materials to inform the public about these new provisions, and the act is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.46.210
Substitute Bill: 49.46.210